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Feasibility study of a moon sensor for satellite attitude determination

Skinner, Robert Edmid (2005-12)

Thesis (MScEng)--University of Stellenbosch, 2005.

Thesis

ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a moon sensor as an alternative
or supplemental sensor to supply attitude information to a satellite. The visibility of the moon
was evaluated with regards to that of the sun from a satellite (i.e. the feasibility of the moon
sensor is compared to that of a sun sensor).
An algorithm was developed to calculate the center of the moon, regardless of phase or
rotation, to offer increased accuracy of the center of the moon. The accuracy of this
algorithm and the possible error margins were evaluated and discussed in both ideal and
actual test cases. The sensor was implemented on embedded hardware.
The conclusion of the feasibility analysis was that the sensor would function well as a
supplemental sensor (e.g. in conjunction with a sun-sensor) rather than as an alternative
sensor. The accuracy of the moon center algorithm was satisfactory for attitude
deterrnina tion.
This sensor could thus be seriously considered for use on a future satellite.